Cubs spring training: Collier County not out of running, Florida Gov. Crist says

Jan. 22, 2010

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news-press.com

3:27 P.M. — Gov. Charlie Crist, wearing a Chicago Cubs jersey, said Collier County is not out of the running to be the team’s spring training site.

“I had the opportunity to chat with the owner last night,’’ he said during a stop at Cambier Park in Naples. “He told me, ‘governor, you’re going to see some thing in tomorrow’s papers, but no decision has been made.’’

The Mesa City Council will vote Monday on a memorandum of understanding that includes building a 13,500- to 15,000-seat stadium with four practice fields and a 50,000-square-foot clubhouse.

The city will finance the $84 million project. The money will come from bonds. The deal is subject to approval by Mesa voters in November.

Mesa posted its proposal on its Web site Thursday and sent it to the Cubs.

“They indicated they would have to take it to their board,” said Chris Brady, Mesa city manager.

The Cubs haven’t confirmed a deal is in place.

“The Cubs are interested in reading through Mesa’s proposal and having our board take it under review,” said Peter Chase, Cubs spokesman.

The Cubs will sell the naming rights and receive all revenues from tickets, concessions, merchandise, signage and parking.

Mesa’s residents would have to approve spending $84 million to build a stadium.

“We’re not quitting, we haven’t got a no from the Cubs,’’ said Naples City Councilman Gary Price.